Books in Patriotic Symbols of America series

The final resting place for many of America's heroes is located only a few miles from our nation's capital. This high-interest text will take readers on a tour of the cemetery and point out the graves of some well-known patriots, including President John F. Kennedy, Jr. A detailed map guides readers as they locate sections and specific grave sites. Descriptions of ceremonies help readers understand how these events show respect for those who gave their lives in the service of their country. Photographs such as the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns enhance the text.

Was there really an Uncle Sam? Yes! He was Samuel Wilson, who sent barrels of meat marked "U.S." to American soldiers during the War of 1812.The soldiers called it "Uncle Sam's" meat, and an icon was born. Cartoonist Thomas Nast drew the familiar portrait of the man in a top hat and striped pants. Uncle Sam's image has appeared in political ads and on postage stamps. Costumed interpreters take on his persona at historic sites, including Mount Vernon. This high-interest text will engage readers and leave them wanting to find out more about one of America's most famous symbols.

In the early days of American independence, government leaders tried to identify an animal that would represent the new nation. They settled on the bald eagle, a proud raptor that fiercely defends its nest and its family. The eagle has been used to represent government power since the time of the Roman Empire. In 1787 the bald eagle was officially adopted as the emblem of the United States. The eagle is often shown holding an olive branch (representing peace) and arrows (representing war) in its talons. Today the bald eagle remains a living symbol of American strength and values.

Why would anyone want to carve enormous faces into a piece of solid rock in the Black Hills of South Dakota? Why not! This book whisks readers away to view the incredible stone monument. Each spread is filled with age-appropriate details about the "Shrine of Democracy." Readers will learn about the initial idea to promote tourism, how the monument was carved, funding difficulties, the numbers of workers, the number of yearly visitors, and how the monument got its name. Eye-catching photographs help readers understand the massive scope of this project.

In 1927, sculptor Gutzon Borglum began a project to carve the heads of four great American presidents into the granite of Mount Rushmore. Over the next 14 years, the 60-foot-high likenesses of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt emerged from the rock. Today, nearly 3 million people visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial each year. They come to marvel at the majestic beauty of the Black Hills of South Dakota and learn about the birth, growth, development, and preservation of our country. From the history of the Native American tribes who considered this sacred land, to the diversity of America today, Mount Rushmore is a symbol of the rich heritage that we all share.